Graduate Degree Program Summary
Graduate programs offered
Earn a Graduate Degree
- MFA in Theatre Arts (60 cr, Option I only)
Areas of Study
These informal areas of focus may help to shape your course of study but they will not appear on transcripts.
- Directing for Stage and Screen
- Stage Design
Online and Distance Opportunities
Some online coursework may be available for your program; contact dept. for details.Contacts for Theatre Arts
Ask a question
Other Ways to Connect
On the Web
Theatre Arts
Graduate Chair
Dr. William Grange
Campus Address
215 Temple Building
Lincoln NE 68588-0201

Application checklist and deadlines
1. Required by Graduate Studies
Submit these items as part of the standard steps to admission.
- Application for Admission with $50 non-refundable application fee
- One set of transcripts uploaded to MyRED
- If English is not your native language: verification of English proficiency
- If you are not a US citizen and you expect an F or J visa: financial information
2. Required by Theatre Arts
After you apply, allow one business day for us to set up your access so you can complete these requirements via MyRED.
- Entrance exam(s): None
- Minimum English proficiency: Paper TOEFL 550, Internet TOEFL 79, IELTS 6.5
- Three letters of recommendation
- Audition or interview
- Portfolio
- Resume
- Cover Letter
When sending GRE or TOEFL scores, our institution code is 6877 and a department code is not needed.
Application Deadlines for Theatre Arts
- Stage Design: Accepting applications annually.
- Directing: Accepting applications for Fall 2017, 2020.
- For financial consideration: March 10 for Fall.
Application/admission is for entry in a specific term and year. Our academic year is divided into 3 terms: Fall (August-December), Spring (January-May), and Summer (multiple sessions May-August). Some programs accept new students only in certain terms and/or years.
Description
The Master of Fine Arts in theatre arts is a three-year program offering two areas of emphasis: design/stage technology and directing.
All graduate programs combine academic depth with professional training to prepare students for success in theatre. Students admitted to the program are selected through University/Resident Theatre Association (URTA) auditions and through on-campus interview and portfolio presentation. Students interested in the design/technical emphasis should be able to provide evidence of drawing ability and/or technical skills.
Graduate courses are offered in the disciplines of dramatic analysis, theatre history, directing, film, production, and design. Theatre classes and productions are held in the Temple Building, which contains the Howell Theatre, Studio Theatre, and Lab Theatre. Teaching assistantships are available for selected students.
Courses and More
- Students work with an advisor to create a plan of study and follow the Steps to Degree Completion. See all courses or jump to related subjects:
- Cost of attendance differs from one student to another. Try our Cost Estimator or see Tuition, Fees, and Funding for details.
Faculty and research
Where available, names link to bios or homepages and contact card icons () link to directory listings with address, phone, and email.
This summary page is maintained by Graduate Studies.
For additional details check out the dept./program website: Theatre Arts.
Departments: Have an update for this summary? Contact Kurt Mueller.